Government Intensifies Fight Against Illegal Mining – Lands Minister

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.

At a press briefing, the Minister emphasized that the government has ramped up its anti-galamsey efforts, ensuring that the fight remains a national priority.

Enhanced Monitoring of Excavators

He revealed that the Minerals Commission has made significant progress in deploying 70 excavators equipped with real-time monitoring technology on an experimental basis. These machines, integrated with geo-fencing and geo-tagging, can be tracked around the clock. The Minister stated that this initiative should be expanded to include all excavators, ensuring they are monitored from the point of entry into the country.

Stricter Regulations on Excavator Imports

The Minister also disclosed ongoing discussions regarding tighter regulations on the importation of excavators. He highlighted the alarming fact that excavators rank among Ghana’s top three most valuable imports, amounting to $6.2 billion, with many being used for illegal mining. He stressed the need to curb imports to protect the country’s forests and water bodies from further destruction.

Public Awareness and Education

Beyond enforcement, the Minister underscored the importance of education and public awareness in tackling illegal mining. He announced plans to strengthen collaborations with the Ministry of Education and the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) to incorporate environmental awareness into school curricula and public messaging campaigns.

“This is a fight for our survival and the future of our country,” he stressed, urging all Ghanaians to support the national campaign against illegal mining.

Crackdown on Illegal Miners

According to the Minister, illegal miners must be regarded as environmental criminals, as their activities pose a direct threat to national survival. He expressed deep concern over the severe pollution of water bodies, noting that turbidity levels have reached between 5,000 and 12,000, far exceeding the acceptable threshold of 500.

“This means we are drinking poison,” he warned.

Support for Responsible Small-Scale Mining

The Minister reassured genuine small-scale miners of the government’s commitment to facilitating licensing and providing support for responsible mining practices. He added that efforts are underway to mobilize financial resources for the reclamation of degraded and mined-out lands.

Revamping Mining Policies

As part of broader reforms, the Minister announced that Ghana’s mining and mineral policies are currently under review, marking the first major update since 2014. The government aims to decentralize the mining licensing regime, shifting from an Accra-based approval system to a district-led approach that empowers traditional authorities and local communities.

He assured Ghanaians that the government remains resolute in its commitment to responsible mining, environmental conservation, and the protection of Ghana’s natural resources.

“We must act decisively to safeguard our land, water, and future generations,” he concluded.

Source: metrotvonline.com